June 2023
Liszt: Transcriptions for Two Pianos (Da Vinci Classics)
I will be returning to this CD often [JWe]
Leclair: Elite de bons mots (Flora)
Extroverted performances in an intimate setting [JV]
La Divina Maria Callas in all her roles (Warner Classics)
A magnificent and comprehensive testament to the supremacy of the greatest singing actress of the 20C [RMo]
von Tilzer: Into Eternity (trptk)
This includes a handful of important compositions that provide a deeply touching experience [MP]
Rubinstein: Cello Concertos (Northern Flowers)
Engagingly unfamiliar works from the last two centuries each presented with conviction [RB]
Zinka Milanov (soprano) Sings Verdi (Nimbus)
(Déjà Review) These excerpts from four favourite roles show Milanov almost constantly in the best possible light [GF]
Sabine Meyer (clarinet) French Works (Warner Classics)
(Déjà Review) An outstanding achievement [MC]
Barber: The Complete Songs (Brilliant Classics)
What should have been an important and innovative release ruined by basic failures of presentation [PCG]
The Living American (Albany)
A most enjoyable guide to the world of contemporary US composers [DMD]
Offenbach: La Périchole (Naxos)
A benchmark production of Offenbach’s opéra bouffe, subtle yet full of colour [RW]
Weinberg: String Quartets (Alto)
Early accounts of two introspective quartets and of two often upbeat orchestral works [RB]
Forbidden Fruit (Alpha Classics)
A deeply uplifting experience, and I recommend that you make the same journey [GF]
Monteverdi: Vespers (Hyperion)
(Déjà Review) Truly mind-blowing – I can’t imagine it being replaced any time soon [DC]
Mozart: Overtures (RCA)
(Déjà Review) Davis cleaves to traditional values with his superlative orchestra, splendidly recorded [JW]
Clara Rockmore’s Lost Theremin Album (Bridge)
An affectionate tribute and mostly a pleasure that these recordings been set free [RB]
Atmospheriques Vol. 1 (Sono Luminus)
Dark Nordic masterpieces from this fine Icelandic orchestra [GPJ]
Bach Family: Motets (Christophorus)
Unusual performances due to relatively slow tempi, but full of expression [JV]
Bloch: Orchestral Works (Alto)
Often eloquently introspective but rising to anger and vigour [RB]
Eudice Shapiro (violin) (Biddulph)
A lovingly restored aural document of an exceptional violinist and remarkable musician [SG]
Takemitsu: Spectral Canticle (BIS)
Sumptuous playing and sound entice us into Takemitsu’s magical kingdom [DM]
Butterworth: Chamber Music (Dutton)
(Déjà Review) Tuneful and tonal works from a contemporary composer, in accomplished and suave performances [EML]
Debussy: Orchestral Works (Eloquence)
(Déjà Review) A delightful Debussy collection, excellently performed [MC]
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